Concerns over Unauthorized Access to Telecommunication Devices

Officials at the Ministry of Communication have expressed their concern about the usage of unauthorized telecommunication devices in Afghanistan.

Deputy Khair Mohammad Faizi from Afghanistan Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (ATRA) said that modern telecommunication devices are imported into the country and their usage is raising concerns.

According to him, last month advanced unauthorized devices that were put in place in the 11th and 4th Districts of Kabul were discovered by ATRA.

ATRA has so far been able to discover 6 “SIM-box” devices that can hold 8 SIM cards simultaneously. According to Faizi, telecommunication sector has seen the fastest growth since the established of the new government, carrying devices that are relatively modern with high technological capabilities.

Faizi added that ATRA has found out 50 unauthorized devices from various sub-regions.

“Offenders of laws use such modern devices that make it difficult for us to determine their exact locations,” said Faizi.

ATRA Deputy criticized operations of unauthorized SIM cards that fall into the hands of offenders. He reported that 273 non-registered MTN SIM cards have been confiscated by ATRA with the help from Supreme Court representatives.

One person associated to the case has also been arrested and investigations are going on.

According to a number of citizens, several other telecommunication companies are selling SIM cards to customers without registration.